Blog
Crossroads Asia
Uzbek Man Jailed for Social Media Posts Criticizing Mirziyoyev for Supporting Russia’s Putin
By Catherine Putz
Bunyodjon Boboniyozov was given a five-year sentence under criminal charges related to insulting the president and posing a threat to the constitutional order.
The Tokayev Interview and Nazarbayev’s Long Shadow
By Catherine Putz
Kazakh President Tokayev says he “openly told Nursultan Abishuly Nazarbayev that the political arrogance of his close associates almost destroyed the country.”
Kyrgyzstan’s New Flag Debuts in Bishkek
By Catherine Putz
The rays on the sun are a little straighter -- even if the priorities of the Kyrgyz government remain wavering.
Taliban Accuse Tajik, Pakistani Citizens of Carrying out Attacks in Afghanistan
By Catherine Putz
“Dozens of Tajikistan citizens have been killed in our operations and dozens of others have been arrested,” acting Defense Minister Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid said.
Mongolian Policymakers Must Prioritize the Energy Sector in 2024
By Bolor Lkhaajav
A cohesive strategy aimed at improving the country’s energy sector has become a dire necessity.
What Happens to Central Asian Youth After Following China’s ‘Educational Silk Road?’
By Adina Masalbekova and Nigora Tangatarova
In contrast to the past, when youth from Central Asia largely migrated to Russia and other countries to do hard, physical labor, the younger generation is more focused on looking for educational opportunities abroad.
China’s Electric Vehicle Expansion in Central Asia
By Nargiza Murataliyeva and Shakhriyor Ismailkhodjaev
Chinese electric vehicles are making inroads into Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, but for different reasons.
In Uzbekistan, Residents Complain of Poor Quality in Rural Housing Projects
By Gulnoz Mamarasulova
Affordable housing projects funded by foreign investment are an important initiative to benefit low-income families in need of housing, especially in rural areas, but there are several challenges.
How Mongolia’s Third Neighbor Policy Can Bolster Its Tourism Sector
By Bolor Lkhaajav
From boosting air links to promoting Mongolian culture abroad, Mongolia's government is making an all-out push to attract tourists in 2024.
Central Asia’s Rare Earths May Fuel Energy Transition
By Wilder Alejandro Sánchez
If rare earth elements are the crude oil of the 21st century, then Central Asia and Mongolia may be the Saudi Arabias of these strategic minerals.
Big Promises on the Kyrgyz-Tajik Border
By Catherine Putz
Kyrgyz and Tajik officials say they're close to agreement on the entirety of their long-disputed border.
The West Is Eying Closer Relations With Central Asia
By Mark Temnycky
It’s been a busy year for Central Asia, with numerous Western diplomats swinging through the region or welcoming Central Asian delegations in their own capitals.